The Newark, Delaware community is mourning the passing of Annie Catherine Lane, 12, who passed away on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Her journey touched millions of people around the world as she faced years of serious medical challenges with courage and strength.
Annie was born in 2014 with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a complex heart condition that required her to undergo three open-heart surgeries by the age of three. At 11 years old, she received a heart transplant, but later experienced additional medical complications, including cancer, during her continued health journey.
Throughout her life, Annie inspired a large online community, with more than four million supporters following her story and offering encouragement. Her determination, bravery, and positivity left an impact on healthcare workers, fellow patients, and people who followed her journey. Her family expressed gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and caregivers at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia who supported Annie and her loved ones.
Annie is survived by her parents, Matt and Tracy Lane, her two siblings, and extended family members who will continue to carry her memory. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Strano & Feeley Family Funeral Home. Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Ogletown Baptist Church in Newark, followed by a funeral service on Monday, September 28, at 9:00 a.m. Burial will take place at All Saints Cemetery in Wilmington.
Though Annie’s life was far too short, the courage, love, and hope she shared will continue to inspire those who knew her story. Thoughts and condolences are with the Lane family, frie